JOE'S PLATFORM
Joe de la Cruz is a proven leader with decades of experience serving our community. As a former State Representative, Town Councilor, and lifelong union member, Joe knows how to bring different people together and get things done for working families.
Joe wants to return to the Capitol to continue the important work of making lives better for our community. As a State Representative, he built strong bipartisan relationships in Hartford that he'll leverage to deliver results for the 18th Senate District.
Joe’s priorities include addressing the affordability crisis by creating jobs, lowering costs on essentials, getting Connecticut back on track, and moving us forward to a stronger tomorrow.
CREATE JOBS & OPPORTUNITIES
Our state has seen increased unemployment claims and job stagnation. We need to put government dollars towards infrastructure projects and other investments that provide jobs and put money in people’s pockets. I will work to expand apprenticeships tied to public projects; uphold strong wage and training standards, and support more union jobs.
INVEST IN LOCAL ECONOMIES
Many small businesses are struggling to keep up with rising costs and barriers to growth. This puts jobs at risk, slows economic development and increases the burden on taxpayers. We need to invest money at the state level to help our local economies and ensure a level playing field for local businesses.
SUPPORT FARMERS & RURAL COMMUNITIES
Family farms are the backbone of rural Connecticut, yet many are under growing strain from forces beyond their control. Volatile markets, falling farm prices, corporate consolidation, unbalanced trade policies, and environmental pressures are putting farmers, and the communities they serve, at risk while rural families feel the impact.
KEEP OUR PROMISE: FUND EDUCATION
Public education is an investment in our children, and it’s time we treat it that way. Every child should have access to early education, a well-funded neighborhood school, and an affordable path to college. In Connecticut, the current ECS formula underfunds schools and relies too heavily on property taxes. We need real reform so every child, in every zip code, has the opportunity to succeed.
MAKE CONNECTICUT AFFORDABLE
Connecticut’s affordability crisis is the result of policy choices. While costs for housing, energy, healthcare, and childcare keep rising, too many decisions have favored corporate profits over working families. A real affordability agenda means taking a different path: lowering everyday costs, expanding opportunity, and building an economy that works for everyone, not just the wealthy.
RESTORE CIVILITY & COMMON PURPOSE
Politicians at the highest levels have created too much division. We need leaders who focus on what unites us and put our common goals first. That means rejecting divisive politics and recommitting to respect, inclusion, and community. Connecticut communities are showing a better path forward by listening, engaging respectfully, and finding common ground. We can rebuild a healthier democracy through respect and participation.